Gitzo GT1540F (Safari) – A User’s Review

[maxby]

I have used a Gitzo 1542T tripod on our last Photosafari trip to Gorepani and Poon Hill. This year, I brought the Gitzo GT1540F (Safari) for a trek up to Manang in Nepal. The Gitzo GT1540F was a new model introduced about a month ago and the stock has just arrived at our local Distributor.

My friend has nudged me to give this latest carbon fibre tripod a spin. It would be great if you could bring it up the Himalayans he said. This was an all-weather tripod that has sealed sections on the first two sections of the tripod. Last year I gave him the feedback that some of our PMPE participants had problems with the 1542T tripods as they have used the tripods in various situations especially on the beaches. Sand and dust do get into the slip joints at the legs. We had to send the tripods in for cleaning which he gladly did it for us for free…and that is what we call service.



What are the differences between the Gitzo 1540F and the 1542T?

Firstly it is the weight. The 1542T is lighter than the 1540F by about 120gms. That is not a lot of weight increase. Secondly, the maximum height with the central column down, the 1542T is shorter than the 1540F by about 21.5cm (8.5 inches). This is a significant difference if you are a tall person. This means that you do not need to stoop down when looking through the camera viewfinder. However, with the central column extended to its maximum, the 1540F is taller by about only 10cm (4 inches).

Thirdly, the central column of the 1540F can be removed, whilst you can’t do that with the 1542T. This central column can be used in reverse for the 1540F. Hence the minimum height for the 1540F is 17cm while it is 22cm for the 1542T.

Fourthly, the closed length is an important consideration if you are going to pack this tripod into your checked-in luggage. The 1542T has a closed length of 42.5cm while it is 54cm for the 1540F (the difference is about 4.5 inches). By removing the central column, the closed length can be reduced by another 1.5 cm and the difference is reduced to about 4 inches. The tripod can be fitted comfortably into my 22 inches checked-in luggage.

Fifthly, cosmetic wise, the 1540F has a safari green top part whilst the 1542T has the grey magnesium/ basalt color.

The load capacity for both tripods is the same at 8kg.



For more details of this review, pictures and conclusion....Gitzo GT1540F Safari

[calvincychin]

I like the ocean lock... But still love my T.

[maxby]

I think the Ocean-lock is an improvement. Not many tripods have this feature. I used to have problem cleaning the tripod every time I use the tripod on the beach.

[calvincychin]

how much it is retailed?

[maxby]

how much it is retailed?

Not more than 2k.

[maxby]

I just heard that Birders form a sizable market for this tripod.

[Fang]

Love the Safari green. Blends in very well with the Birders camouflage outfit . .

I just heard that Birders form a sizable market for this tripod.

[maxby]

Love the Safari green. Blends in very well with the Birders camouflage outfit . .

There is a fluid head, Gitzo G2380 that is designed for Birders and Video applications



The G2380 fluid head is specifically designed for the new range of lightweight and compact camcorders used by advanced enthusiasts and professionals. Some specific features also make this head the ideal tool for photographers and bird watchers using long focal length lenses. First, pan and tilt locks and separate friction controls are positioned on the same side for ergonomic, fast and precise action. Second, the pan lock is based on a unique system that completely eliminates any unwanted movement at the moment of locking, making the G2380 ideal when exceptional targeting precision over very long distances is needed....

[maxby]

This time I took the Gitzo Safari to Jogja/Borobudur. I used it on the Klawar beach and the "Ocean Lock" works beautifully. It prevented the sand from entering the tripod legs and was very easy to clean. I just sprayed water on the tripod and it was clean in a jiffy.